Former U.S. President Barack Obama has called for urgent action to prevent starvation in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing the dire humanitarian situation unfolding in the region.
“While a lasting resolution to the crisis in Gaza must involve the return of all hostages and a cessation of Israel’s military operations, these articles underscore the immediate need for action to prevent the tragedy of innocent people dying from preventable starvation,” Obama wrote Sunday on X, linking to two New York Times articles.
“Aid must be permitted to reach people in Gaza. There is no justification for withholding food and water from civilian families,” he added.
Gaza’s hunger crisis has spiraled into a humanitarian catastrophe. Israel has maintained a blockade on the enclave for 18 years and, since March 2, has closed all border crossings, further worsening the already critical conditions.
Since October 7, 2023, the Israeli army has continued its offensive on Gaza, rejecting international calls for a ceasefire. Nearly 60,000 Palestinians, most of them women and children, have been martyred in the ongoing attacks.